Could Lead To Further Health Issues: Centre Objects Re-vaccinating Fully Vaccinated People Before Kerala High Court

The Centre recently informed a Single Bench of the Kerala High Court comprising Justice Murali Purushothaman that those who have already received two doses of the Covid-19 vaccine cannot be re-vaccinated with a third dose. 

This submission was made during the hearing of a plea seeking administration of third dose of an internationally recognized vaccine for NRIs who had already received two doses of Covaxin, which is not globally recognized for international travel. Advocate Manas P Hameed appeared on behalf of the petitioner.

The Centre further submitted that one may be prone to further health issues if he receives more than two doses of vaccines.

Additionally, it was brought to the attention of the Court that at present there was no provision to administer more than two doses of the vaccine to an individual n the country. Similarly, the Centre argued that there was no international guideline yet advocating or recognising the administration of a third dose in vaccination.

"Receiving an overdose of the vaccine could potentially lead to other health issues. No further studies have been conducted on this perspective.  The petitioner's claim cannot be considered in this case, since if we succumb to this demand, more people are likely to approach the Court with similar demands."

In his plea, the petitioner had urged that it was time to explore mixed doses of COVID 19 vaccines.

He had already received two doses of Covaxin, which is not recognised in Saudi Arabia, where he works. The petitioner is due to return to Saudi Arabia before 30th August as per the Visa. He contended that unless he joins duty by the stipulated time, it will cost him his job. 

The matter has been posted to 26th August 2021 for further consideration. 

Case Title: Girikumar Thekan Kuunumpurath v. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare & Ors